Low Electrolytic Conductivity Standards

Standards of low electrolytic conductivity were developed to satisfy the demands of the U.S. Navy and American industry for the measurement of high quality water. The criteria for the selection of appropriate solvent and solutes, based on the principles of equivalent conductivity and Onsager's limiting law, are described. Dilute solutions of potassium chloride and benzoic acid in 30 % n-propanol-water have been chosen as standards. The electrolytic conductivity of both sets of these solutions as a function of molality was determined. Solutions of potassium chloride and of benzoic acid are recommended for use as 5 μS/cm, 10 μS/cm, 15 μS/cm, 20 μS/cm, and 25 μS/cm conductivity standards. Solutions prepared from potassium chloride in 30 % n-propanol-water have been certified as Standard Reference Materials (SRMs). SRM 3198 and SRM 3199 are certified nominally at 5 μS/cm and 15 μS/cm, respectively, at 25.000 °C.